Gluten-Free Cream of Chicken Soup

Many recipes, from casseroles to sauces, call for a can of cream of chicken soup. But that can be tough when you want to make warm broccoli cheese dip or creamy hash brown casserole and the dish has to be gluten-free. Don’t be discouraged! With a handful of ingredients, you can make a gluten-free cream of chicken soup recipe at home.

Our recipe will give you peace of mind because you’ll know exactly what’s in it without worrying about cross-contamination. The best part? It’s ready in about five minutes! You’ll be able to make your favorite recipes with cream of chicken soup in no time—while fitting your taste and dietary needs.

Is cream of chicken soup gluten-free?

Most canned cream of chicken soups aren’t gluten-free because they include wheat flour. While there are gluten-free versions on the shelves, they’re often a little pricier or hard to find. This homemade gluten-free cream of chicken soup recipe is delicious, budget-friendly and perfect for avoiding gluten cross-contamination.

Ingredients for Gluten-Free Cream of Chicken Soup

• Butter: Butter adds richness and flavor. To control the salt levels, stick with unsalted butter.
• Cornstarch: Cornstarch is gluten-free and makes the soup silky and thick without a speck of wheat.
• Salt and pepper: Just a pinch of salt brings out all the savory flavors, as pepper adds subtle spice.
• Garlic powder: A tiny dash of garlic adds warmth and depth of flavor. Avoid garlic salt since we are adding our own salt.
• Onion powder: This is the secret ingredient that makes everyone ask, “What’s in this?” because it tastes that good.
• Chicken stock: For a rich chicken flavor, use high-quality chicken stock with low or no sodium. While there is a difference between stock and broth, it does not matter here, so you could use a good chicken broth brand instead.
• Milk: Sticking with 2% milk strikes the perfect balance between creamy and not too thick (whole milk or cream might be too rich), helping give the soup that classic creamy texture.

Directions

Step 1: Melt and whisk

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In a small saucepan, melt the butter over medium-low heat.

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Add the cornstarch, and whisk until smooth and bubbly, one to two minutes.

Editor’s Tip: Cornstarch can be swapped 1:1 for rice flour or a gluten-free flour blend. All work well in this recipe, but cornstarch creates the smoothest, glossiest texture.

Step 2: Season the soup

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Whisk in the salt, pepper, garlic powder and onion powder.

Editor’s Tip: Adding the spices at this stage allows them to bloom in the warm butter for a richer, deeper flavor.

Step 3: Make it creamy

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Gradually whisk in the chicken stock and milk.

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Increase the heat to medium and whisk constantly until the mixture thickens, another one to two minutes. Remove from heat when combined and smooth.

Editor’s Tip: Gluten-free thickeners react faster than traditional flour. Once the soup starts to simmer, it will thicken within 30 to 60 seconds.

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How to Use Gluten-Free Cream of Chicken Soup

If you are gluten-free and making any recipe that calls for canned cream of chicken soup, substitute this version 1:1. This homemade version is excellent in casseroles, soups and creamy dips. Try it in turkey lattice pie, creamy chicken fettuccine, scalloped potatoes or even creamy chicken enchiladas.

Gluten-Free Cream of Chicken Soup Variations

• Add garden herbs: For extra flavor, add a pinch of thyme, parsley or rosemary. Dried herbs will give you the most flavor.
• Spice it up: Stir in a pinch of cayenne pepper for a bit of heat.
• Make it vegetarian: If you’re making this soup for a vegetarian dish, swap in vegetable stock for the chicken stock. This gluten-free chicken soup recipe can also be vegan, just use dairy-free butter and milk.

How to Store Gluten-Free Cream of Chicken Soup

Store gluten-free cream of chicken soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days.

Can you freeze gluten-free cream of chicken soup?

Absolutely! Just make sure it’s completely cooled before transferring it to a freezer bag. Laying the bag flat will save you space and help the soup thaw quicker when you’re ready to use it. In the freezer, the soup will last up to three months.

How do you reheat gluten-free cream of chicken soup?

Reheat it on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally. You may need to add a splash of milk or stock to get that creamy consistency back.

Gluten-Free Cream of Chicken Soup Tips

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What if my gluten-free cream of chicken soup is too thick?

Just add a splash of chicken stock or milk, stirring it in until the soup reaches your desired consistency.

Can you make this gluten-free cream of chicken soup recipe dairy-free?

Yes! Simply swap in dairy-free butter or margarine for the butter and your favorite unsweetened nondairy milk (like almond, oat or coconut) for the milk.